What is atrioventricular septal defect in newborns?
Atrioventricular septal defect is a hole in the center of the heart. The hole is where the four chambers of the heart normally would meet. The opening is caused because the heart tissue did not join together during the growth of the fetus. While this hole is there, blood doesn't flow as well as it should. This can make your baby's heart pump harder.
This is a congenital heart disease. This means your baby was born with it.
Your baby may need special care, such as being in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). This may be scary for you. But the hospital staff understands this. They will explain what happens and will answer your questions.
How is atrioventricular septal defect treated in newborns?
Your baby may get medicine. It may include medicines given through a blood vessel. This is often done through the belly button.
Your baby will need surgery. The doctor will close the hole with patches that become part of the heart. The heart valves are separated to make them as normal as possible. Your baby will be asleep during the surgery.
The surgery may be done when a baby is a few months old. Your baby will probably be in the hospital during this time. When you can go home with your baby, you'll get instructions on how to care for your baby.
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